By: Chandan Singh | New Delhi | Page 3 News Worldwide
New Delhi: Delhi is set to significantly expand its electric public transport network, with 200 new electric buses scheduled to join the city’s fleet this month. The development was reviewed by Delhi’s Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh during a high-level meeting with officials of the Transport Department and the Delhi Transport Corporation.
Officials informed the minister that the national capital currently operates more than 4,000 electric buses, one of the largest such fleets in the country. With continued procurement and deployment planned over the coming months, the EV fleet is projected to grow to around 7,500 buses by the end of the year.
Reviewing the progress of electric mobility infrastructure, the minister was briefed that EV charging facilities have already been installed across 44 bus depots in the city. In addition, charging networks are being developed in 36 more depots under the PM e‑Drive Phase I and II initiatives, which are expected to support the rapid expansion of the electric bus fleet.
Chairing the review meeting, Dr. Singh said strengthening the EV fleet remains a priority for the Delhi government under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, with a focus on building environmentally sustainable and commuter-friendly mobility solutions.
The meeting also reviewed several key transport infrastructure projects. Officials informed the minister that the government plans to build a new interstate bus terminal in Bhalswa on around 20 acres of land being reclaimed from the landfill site. The proposed facility is expected to improve interstate connectivity and passenger amenities, particularly for commuters in North Delhi.
The minister also directed officials to conduct a feasibility study for establishing an additional DTC depot along the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) corridor to cater to the area’s rapid urban expansion and growing transport demand. Upgradation of the existing bus depot in Burari was also discussed to improve operational efficiency and support the expanding EV fleet.
Meanwhile, two newly developed Automated Testing Stations at Nand Nagri and Tehkhand are expected to become operational and open to the public in April. The facilities will strengthen the vehicle fitness testing system and help improve compliance with road safety standards.
“Our government is committed to modernising Delhi’s public transport system with a strong focus on electric mobility, better infrastructure and improved commuter facilities,” Dr. Singh said, adding that the expansion of the EV bus fleet and development of charging infrastructure will play a crucial role in building a cleaner and more efficient transport network for the capital.
